From blockbuster IMAX premieres to family-friendly festivals and late-summer concerts, August in Indianapolis is brimming with reasons to get out and explore. Whether you’re a foodie, film buff, music lover, or just looking for a fun night under the stars, this month’s lineup offers something for everyone. Mark your calendars—here are the can’t-miss events lighting up the city this August.
The Fantastic Four: First Steps – IMAX Experience
White River State Park IMAX, July 25 – Aug. 6
“The Fantastic Four: First Steps – IMAX Experience” is coming to White River State Park IMAX for a limited-time viewing. This immersive screening introduces Marvel’s iconic superhero team in a bold new way, optimized for the IMAX format. Experience the origin story of the Fantastic Four with epic visuals, enhanced sound, and larger-than-life action designed to thrill both longtime fans and new audiences.
Versiti Blood Center of Indiana Community Blood Drive
Canal Walk, July 31-2
Take time to give back to the community this summer with Versiti Blood Center’s Indiana Community Blood Drive!
Dude Perfect Hero Tour
Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Aug. 1
Dude Perfect is coming to Indiana! Prepare for an exciting evening filled with a blend of sports, comedy, and incredible stunts. With multiple Streamy awards, nominations at the Kids’ Choice Awards, and over 10 million subscribers, Dude Perfect stars Tyler Toney, Cody Jones, Garrett Hilbert, and twins Coby and Cory Cotton, fans get to enjoy behind-the-scenes stories and exclusive content that give a fun peek into the group’s creative journey.
White River State Park’s Outdoor Movie Night
White River State Park, Aug. 1
Grab your friends and spend a night under the stars for an Outdoor Movie Night. The gates open at 8 p.m., and the movie will start at dusk, making this event the perfect summer evening for friends and family. The movie has not been released yet, but it is rated PG-13 for adult humor, innuendo, and violence.
Indiana State Fair
Indiana State Fairgrounds, Aug. 1-17
The Indiana State Fair spans over the course of three summer weeks filled with rides, games, fair food, and other family fun. This historic Indiana tradition has been a summertime staple for Hoosiers for over 170 years!
Gen Con
Indiana Convention Center, Aug. 1-4
Gen Con Indy is the first and best-attended gaming convention in the world with all types of games, including board, card, dice games, as well as role-playing games and D&D collections.
Chris Stapleton’s All-American Road Show
Ruoff Music Center, Aug. 1-2
Experience an unforgettable night of music as Chris Stapleton brings his acclaimed All-American Road Show to the stage. Known for his powerful vocals, soul-stirring lyrics, and masterful guitar work, Stapleton delivers a raw, emotionally charged performance that blends country, rock, and blues.
Murder Mystery Night: Til Death Do Us Part
Feinstein’s at Hotel Carmichael, Aug. 2
What was supposed to be an unforgettable weekend turns unforgettable in an unexpected way when a member of the wedding party is murdered. This nuptial nightmare features a bridezilla, a grumpy groom and a mystery for you to solve! Trade clues with other guests and help the hapless couple figure out whodunnit so they can say I do before the wedding hour passes! The bride encourages her guests to wear the most outrageous wedding attire they can come up with. Immerse yourself in a thrilling experience where you get to become a part of the mystery at Feinstein’s at Hotel Charmichael and The Murder Mystery Company. Doors for the event will open at 5:30 and the show starts at 7:30. Along with your ticket, there is a $25 food and beverage minimum per guest.
Disney Descendants and Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour
Gainbridge Fieldhouse, Aug. 8
The “Descendants/Zombies: Worlds Collide Tour” is a new interactive live concert experience hitting arenas across North America in Summer 2025, with a stop at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Produced by Disney Concerts, Disney Branded Television, and AEG Presents, the tour features performances from stars of Disney’s “Descendants” and “Zombies” franchises. This show promises Disney fans a nostalgic, high-energy night of fun for families and fans of all ages.
Aloha Cowgirl!
Satellite Vintage, Aug. 9
This party that celebrates Satellite Vintage’s one-year anniversary is free to attend and includes exclusive giveaways, live music from local girl band Moxxie, refreshments, and fun photo opportunities. Satellite Vintage invites guests to dress with the theme of western-Hawaiian vibes. Flatwater Restaurant, a broad ripple neighbor of Satellite Vintage, will also be offering a special day-only discount for shoppers.
Wicket World of Croquet
Benjamin Harrison Presidential Site, Aug. 9
The Wicket World of Croquet invites guests to don their finest whites for a day of spirited play and timeless elegance. From lively competition to stylish mingling, it’s a uniquely fashionable summer celebration of tradition, community, and classic fun.
Indianapolis Pizza Festival
Monument Circle, Aug. 9
Do you like pizza? I mean, we all do right? The first-ever Indianapolis Pizza Festival is bringing together the state’s top pizzerias for a day of unlimited pizza tasting, live entertainment, and the ultimate battle to determine Indiana’s best pizza.
Weaving Wall Hanging Class
Goose the Market, Aug. 10
Local Fiber Artist Patty Fulton is hosting a hands-on weaving class at Goose the Market, complete with snacks, wine, charcuterie boards, and cheese. Discover the art of circular weaving and practice essential weaving techniques to create a one-of-a-kind 8-inch round woven unique artistry. This fun and creative workshop is perfect for beginners and craft lovers alike. All of the materials you need will be provided. Get your tickets here!
Indy Maven Members Only Lunch + Learn
Virtual, Aug. 13
If your to-do list is giving “never-ending chaos” and your energy levels are somewhere near empty, we’ve got just the thing. Join us for the virtual lunch + learn where you’ll walk away with 5 practical (and inexpensive!) action steps you can start using immediately to feel more in control, less overwhelmed, and a whole lot more like yourself again. This event is exclusively for Indy Maven members. Not a member yet? Join here.
Indy Maven August Meetup
Orangily Broad Ripple, Aug. 14
August whispers of transformation—nature shifts seasons, children grow, and something in the air calls us toward new beginnings. At our August meetup, we’re embracing that energy of change. Whether you’re navigating a major life transition or just asking, “What’s next for me?”—this evening is your soft landing.
Flavors of Heartland
Indiana History Center, Aug. 13
This monthly taste of history highlights the food culture that continues to shape the Heartland. These dishes are flavored by communities and cultures all across Indiana. Take a break and enjoy the stories and smells of the dishes that make up Indiana’s food heritage. Each month presents a new historical family or community recipe with presenters who share stories of their food and culture.
Indy Fringe Festival
Various Locations, Aug. 14-24
This year marks the 20th annual Indy Fringe Festival, filled with bold performances and boundary-pushing art. This year’s festival has dozens of shows across multiple venues with something for everyone.
One Night of Queen
Conner Prairie, Aug. 15
This performance celebrates the 40th anniversary of Queen’s “The Works Tour!” Gary Mullen and The Works have been performing their world-renowned One Night of Queen Live Concert for over 20 years. The performance pays tribute to the stage theatrics, showmanship, and music of one of the greatest bands of all time: Queen.
Indianapolis Black Documentary Film Festival
Various Locations, Aug. 15-17
The Indianapolis Black Documentary Film Festival showcases documentaries about the African American experience. With hopes of inspiring socially conscious discussions, this event provides a space for filmmakers to share their work with a larger audience.
Race Away From Domestic Violence
IUI Michael A Carroll Track and Soccer Stadium, Aug. 16
This fundraising event and race aims to raise awareness for the devastating impact that domestic violence has on our families and communities. Participants are encouraged to join the race and walk, or run through the route beginning at the IUI Michael A Carroll Stadium in Indianapolis. This 5K course offers beautiful views of the White River and Indianapolis Zoo and is accessible for all individuals.
The Fab Four: The Ultimate Tribute
Conner Prairie, Aug. 16
The Fab Four is an Emmy award-winning tribute band to The Beatles with uncanny note-to-note live renditions of classics such as “Can’t Buy Me Love,” “Yesterday,” “A Day In The Life,” “Twist and Shout,” “Here Comes the Sun,” “Hey Jude,” and more. The Fab Four will make you feel like you’re watching the real thing with incredible stage performances that include three costume changes representing every era of The Beatles and their ever-changing career.
Expiration Date
The Blackbox at IF Theatre, Aug. 16-18
This emotional, but somehow comedic show features a recently broken-up couple who now attempt to move through the awkwardness of their separation. In their quest for friendship, they use an old gift of date coupons to try and connect in a more platonic way. But what happens when one person wants to break off this arrangement, and the other refuses? Using their old date coupons and your participation, maybe they can navigate the hardest relationship of all: friendship.
Summer Sips and Shops
Tinker House Events, Aug. 17
This fun afternoon promises local shopping excursions and delicious local eats. Admission is free for all ages, with coffee from PROVIDER Coffee and Cocktail Lounge, and local vendors like Mandala Clay Designs, Mellow Mood Hemp Co., Soule Shack, Just One More Plant, and more!
Indianapolis and the Road to Rock and Roll
Indiana Historical Society, Aug. 21
This evening of exploration dives into the story of how Black Indianapolis businesspeople and musicians in the 1930s and 40s began a cultural movement that changed the world through rock ‘n’ roll. Author Preston Lauterbach follows the journeys of Indiana Avenue businessman Denver D. Ferguson and musical renaissance man Sax Kari, tracing the many crucial evolutions that began on the Avenue and eventually became the world’s most popular music.
Pop the Cork
Ash & Elm Cider Co. Carmel Taproom, Aug. 22
Pop the Cork Events with Bellini Becky are a fun and informal social event for all who love wine, beer, or just having a good time. Meet new friends, learn about upcoming win trips, and enjoy a cold alcoholic beverage.
Feast of Lanterns
Spades Park, Aug. 23
Celebrate community and creativity at the Feast of Lanterns! This vibrant festival is filled with glowing lanterns, local art, and live music. This unforgettable evening will light up the heart of the neighborhood.
Neil Forever
Conner Prairie, Aug. 22
Neil Forever makes its way to Indianapolis to perform the music of Neil Diamond. The 14-piece ensemble has been capturing the hearts of the nation and is being recognized for its authentic live performance of the legendary artist. Audiences say that seeing the band live brings back those special memories and delivers an authentic and captivating performance.
BUTTER Fine Art Fair
The Stutz, Aug. 28-31
BUTTER is a multi-day cultural fine arts fair that features artwork by Black visual artists from Indiana and across the globe. The no-commission art fair works to maximize artists’ earnings by selling or loaning 100% of the proceeds from art sales to the artists.
Chreece Hip-Hop Fest
Fountain Square, Aug. 23
This single-day celebration takes place across six venues in Fountain Square and features performers like Snow tha Product, Hoosier artists Allison Victoria and Parris LaDanne.
Soul Food The R&B Festival
White River State Park IMAX, Aug. 30
This festival is a place where R&B classics, soulful vibes, and vibrant energy come together to create an unforgettable experience. This evening will be filled with top live performers and food vendors. Whether you are a die-hard R&B fan or simply craving a unique festival experience, Soul Food is where you need to be.
With so many incredible events lighting up the city, August in Indianapolis is anything but ordinary. From iconic concerts and blockbuster movies to foodie festivals and cultural celebrations, there’s no shortage of excitement to fill your calendar. Whether you’re chasing nostalgic vibes, new adventures, or just good pizza, this month is the perfect time to dive into all the magic Indy has to offer. So grab your crew, get out there, and make the most of this unforgettable August!
Jaws: 50th Anniversary – The IMAX Experience
White River State Park IMAX, Aug. 28 – Sept. 3
Celebrate five decades of suspense and cinema history with “Jaws: 50th Anniversary – The IMAX Experience” at White River State Park. The iconic thriller returns to the big screen in stunning IMAX format for a limited run. Don’t miss this chance to relive Spielberg’s classic like never before — with razor-sharp visuals, booming sound, and the unforgettable terror of the original great white shark.
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